Who are Reservists and what do they do?
Reservists are part of team of highly skilled individuals, known as the Canadian Reserve Force. The Reserve Force has four sub-components but the Primary Reserve is the largest component. Reservists usually have a full-time job or attend school during the daytime and work on a part-time basis with the CAF to make a positive impact on their community, learn new skills and earn a little extra money.
Reservists play an important role in supporting Canadian operations both at home and abroad. In the past, part-time CAF members have kept Canadians safe and secure by:
- helping with flood relief efforts in Quebec and Manitoba
- fighting forest fires in Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia
- participating in recovery efforts following ice storms in eastern Canada
- assisting with hurricane relief efforts in Newfoundland and Labrador

Reservists are also active in their communities and help with cultural events, parades, festivals and other public events in communities across Canada, including the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Our part-time members may also choose to serve overseas, when there are opportunities available.